Leaders of the BRICS nations convened in New Delhi on Saturday for a summit centered on economic cooperation and efforts to increase the bloc’s influence in shaping the global agenda for emerging and developing countries. The gathering brought together representatives from the eleven-member organization, which collectively represents approximately half the world’s population and a substantial portion of global economic output. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted counterparts including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and representatives from eight other member states.
The summit agenda encompassed discussions on trade, investment, energy security, food supply, technology development, and supply chain management. A significant focus centered on reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar through expanded use of national currencies in transactions among members and the development of alternatives to Western-controlled financial systems. Iran particularly advocated for mechanisms to shield member economies from international sanctions and economic pressure. The bloc has increasingly pushed for greater representation of developing nations within global institutions.
The meeting tested the organization’s ability to maintain unity amid geopolitical tensions, including ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East as well as escalating U.S.-China relations. India faced the particular challenge of balancing its historical partnerships with Russia and Iran while simultaneously deepening ties with the United States and European nations. A key concern involved whether leaders could achieve consensus on a joint statement, following May’s failure by BRICS foreign ministers to agree on a unified position regarding the Iran conflict.
Security preparations were extensive, with thousands of police and paramilitary personnel deployed throughout New Delhi. Putin stated that BRICS was not directed against any nation and expressed openness to international cooperation. China positioned the bloc as a counterweight to American influence, while Iran advocated for expanded trade using national currencies to reduce vulnerability to Western financial systems. Modi separately met with Putin and Pezeshkian ahead of the summit and was expected to hold discussions with Xi regarding bilateral relations between India and China.
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